Mexico and the Treasures of
Chiapas and Yucatán

Arrival in the capital: start of your Chiapas-Yucatán tour

Welcome to Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis where past and present coexist on every street corner. Upon your arrival at Mexico City Airport, your private driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. This initial immersion allows you to experience the city’s unique rhythm.

Overnight stay at a hotel in the historic center.

This morning, you’ll leave the city with your driver to explore two iconic sites near the capital.

You’ll start with the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a major pilgrimage site for Latin American Catholics. Built in the 17th century, it welcomes millions of faithful each year who come to honor the Black Virgin, a central figure in Mexican religious syncretism.

Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods

Then, you’ll head to the archaeological site of Teotihuacan, once known as the “City of the Gods.” There, you’ll explore the imposing Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, and the ruins of the Palace of the Jaguars. At its peak in the 7th century, the city had nearly 200,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest metropolises of the ancient world.

Overnight in a hotel in the historic center.

Today, you’ll explore the historic center of Mexico City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll start at the Zócalo, one of the largest squares in Latin America. The imposing and elegant Metropolitan Cathedral bears witness to the Spanish colonial era, with its Baroque chapels and carved altarpieces. Right next door, the National Palace houses Diego Rivera’s powerful murals, depicting the country’s social and political history.

A little further on, you’ll explore the ruins of the Templo Mayor, the religious heart of ancient Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire.

Overnight in a hotel in the historic center.

Boat Tour of Sumidero Canyon

After breakfast, you will be driven to the airport for a domestic flight to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the gateway to Chiapas.

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local driver and head to one of the most spectacular landscapes in southern Mexico: the Sumidero Canyon. A roughly two-hour boat ride on the Grijalva River allows you to admire the vertiginous walls rising over 800 meters, a natural habitat for herons, vultures, and, occasionally, crocodiles.

You will then continue on to San Cristóbal, nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters, where you will stay for two nights.

Overnight stay in a hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Indigenous Villages : San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán

This morning, you’ll set out to meet the indigenous communities of the Chiapas highlands, a highlight of this trip.

First stop in San Juan Chamula, a Tzotzil village where spiritual traditions run deep. In the church, religious practices blend Catholicism, ancestral rituals, and pre-Hispanic beliefs.

You will then continue on to Zinacantán, known for its embroidered textiles and flower cultivation. There, you will discover the skills passed down from generation to generation, particularly during a visit to a family workshop.

Back in San Cristóbal de las Casas, you will have the afternoon free.

Overnight in a hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Montebello Lagoons : Volcanic Reflections

Today, you’ll head south through the state for a gradual immersion in the natural beauty of Chiapas, visiting two iconic sites.

In the morning, your first stop is Montebello Lagoons National Park, a group of volcanic lakes on the border with Guatemala. You’ll stroll along their shores, where the blue, jade green, and turquoise reflections shift with the light and the minerals in the water. A peaceful moment in the heart of a preserved environment.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the Las Nubes ecotourism site, located on the banks of the Santo Domingo River.

Overnight at a hotel in Las Nubes

You wake up on the banks of the Santo Domingo River, lulled by the sounds of the surrounding jungle.

The morning is yours to enjoy : you can explore the interpretive trails, stroll along the river, or simply soak up the tranquility of this natural setting. Optionally, a guided hike with a local guide takes you to hidden waterfalls. You can also choose to rent a kayak to explore the river’s meanders at your own pace.

Las Guacamayas: Community Center and Biodiversity

Afterward, you’ll head to Las Guacamayas, a community center dedicated to preserving the Montes Azules biosphere. Managed by local residents, the site protects several iconic species such as scarlet macaws, howler monkeys, and toucans. At dawn or dusk, it is often possible to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Las Guacamayas

What a joy to be awakened by the song of parrots in the heart of the tropical wilderness. Early in the morning, you set off in a canoe for a two-hour trip through the Montes Azules Reserve. Binoculars in hand, you glide silently along the river in search of birds, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Yaxchilan and Bonampak

After breakfast, you’ll head to the impressive site of Yaxchilan, accessible only via the Usumacinta River. A powerful ancient city from the Classic Period, it was ruled by King Jaguar Shield II and maintained complex alliances with Tikal, Bonampak, and Palenque.

Another canoe ride (about 45 minutes) immerses you in an atmosphere of exploration: dense jungle, the cries of howler monkeys, colorful toucans, and temples overgrown with vegetation.

Overnight at the Top Che campsite ecolodge.

This morning, you’ll leave the remote regions of the Lacandon Jungle and head to northern Chiapas.

Your first stop is Bonampak, an archaeological site modest in size but famous for its frescoes of rare intensity. Discovered in 1946, these intact and richly colored murals depict scenes of war, ritual ceremonies, and music, revealing the complexity of Classic Maya society.

You then continue on to the Roberto Barrios Waterfalls, a less-visited spot than the classic Agua Azul. Here, several natural pools invite you to swim in an intimate setting. Discreet trails wind between the levels of the falls, surrounded by lush vegetation.

At the end of the day, arrive in Palenque, one of the major Mayan cities in southeastern Mexico.

Overnight in a hotel in Palenque

Palenque: A Mayan Gem in the Heart of the Jungle

Early in the morning, you’ll set out to explore Palenque, an archaeological gem hidden in the heart of the rainforest. This ancient Mayan city, renowned for the elegance of its architecture and the delicacy of its bas-reliefs, was one of the most important political and spiritual centers of the pre-Hispanic world.

You’ll explore the Temple of Inscriptions, famous for housing the tomb of King Pakal, as well as the Palace, with its vaulted galleries and unique observation tower.

In the early afternoon, you’ll head to Campeche, an old port city with colonial influences, located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Overnight in a hotel in Campeche

Experience colonial charm

You’ll start the day with some free time in Campeche, a fortified city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ramparts, facades, and peaceful atmosphere give it a timeless charm typical of Mexico’s great colonial cities.

Midday, you’ll head to Becal, a small village renowned for its unique crafts. It is here that the famous Panama hats are hand-woven. Immerse yourself in ancestral craftsmanship that is still alive today.

In the late afternoon, head to Mérida for a tour of the capital of Yucatán. While undergoing rapid economic development, it has nevertheless retained a captivating colonial charm and a strong personality.

Overnight in a hotel in Mérida

A little paradise just an hour from Mérida

This morning, you’ll leave the city and head north along the peninsula toward a small, preserved fishing village. It’s one of those hidden gems that locals guard jealously, far from the usual tourist routes.

Then, you’ll set off on a boat and kayak excursion through the mangroves of the Yucatán coast. As you glide along the water, you’ll observe abundant wildlife: herons, blue crabs, and, depending on the season, flamingos. Next, you’ll head to an ojo de agua, a natural freshwater spring in the heart of the lagoon, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Late in the morning, a freshly prepared ceviche is served to you on the beach, with your feet in the sand. This simple moment, in direct contact with nature, ranks among the most memorable experiences of a trip to Mexico.

Return to Mérida in the late afternoon.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Mérida

Immerse yourself in Mayan heritage

Early morning departure for Chichén Itzá, an iconic site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it illustrates the grandeur of pre-Hispanic civilizations. You’ll explore the Pyramid of Kukulcán, the ball court, the observatory, and the Temple of the Warriors. Each ruin bears witness to Mayan and Toltec ingenuity.

After this historical immersion, head to the Yokdzonot cenote, far less crowded than those on standard tours. This natural pool, surrounded by lush vegetation, offers fresh and cool water.

You’ll then continue on to Valladolid, a charming colonial town. In the evening, stroll through the central square, visit the San Bernardino Convent, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this Yucatán town.

Overnight in a hotel in Valladolid

Culture and relaxation on the Caribbean coast

After breakfast, you’ll head toward the Caribbean coast. A whole new side of Mexico awaits you.

On the way, stop in Tulum, an archaeological site located on a cliff overlooking the sea. Once a strategic Mayan port, the city captivates visitors with the beauty of its surroundings and the simplicity of its limestone temples.

You’ll then continue on to Akumal, a peaceful seaside village.

Overnight in a hotel in Akumal

Free day on the beaches of Akumal

This day is all about relaxation in the soothing setting of Akumal’s beaches. You can choose to simply enjoy the tranquility, alternating between swimming and napping in the shade of the palm trees.

For those who prefer to stay active, several water activities are available as optional extras: snorkeling in a bay frequented by sea turtles, or a paddleboarding trip along the coast. Additionally, hikers will appreciate the small coves and secluded trails, perfect for observing the local wildlife.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Akumal

Depending on the time of your international flight, your driver will pick you up at the hotel for a private transfer to the Cancún airport.

See you soon for another Mexican adventure!